We are only just getting our breaths back after a dramatic final day in the National League that saw York secure the title with a 113th minute strike against fellow title rivals Rochdale- confiding them to the playoffs. Due to finishing second, Dale (and third placed Carlisle) have a week to rest ahead of the playoff semi-finals, while the four teams below them have to do battle in the eliminators. Tuesday sees fifth place Scunthorpe host sixth place Southend, before 7th place Forest Green travel to fourth place Boreham Wood on Wednesday. Read below for our Scunthorpe vs Southend best bets and predictions.
After securing promotion from the National League North playoffs last season, few would’ve envisioned Scunthorpe having as strong as a season as they are currently having. The Iron have comfortably been in the playoffs positions for the majority of the campaign and finished 12th points clear of 8th place Halifax.
Andy Butler’s side have scored 77 and conceded 62, with their games averaging just over three goals. With 42 points at home and 40 away, Scunthorpe are well versed to progressing to the semi-final to set up an intriguing clash away at a deflated Rochdale side.
The key player for Iron is undoubtedly Callum Roberts. The 29-year-old registered 27 goal contributions this campaign en route to back-to-back player of the year awards for his side. He was rested in the final game of the season against Eastleigh but is expected to be back on Tuesday night.
Southend ended the season in barnstorming form, taking 19 points from a possible 24, scoring 21 goals in the process. The Shrimpers ended the season on 83 goals, conceding 47 for an average of 2.86 goals per game. They also have an FA Trophy final against Wealdstone to contend with at the end of the season so will be hoping for two trips to Wembley in a month.
At home, their defensive record was impressive conceding a league low 19, while their away games were more open- scoring 42 and conceding 28.
Gus Scott-Morriss has caught the headlines with 15 goals from right back in the league, while Andy Dallas has scored 17 in his first season at the club.
They have been installed as odds on favourites despite playing away – a sentiment I struggle to agree with. On the road this campaign, they took just three points (all draws) against the top seven with Scunthorpe also doing the double over them (0-2 & 1-0).
The value lies with the hosts in what should be a tight game.
Prediction:
Scunthorpe Double Chance @1.90
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